The Brian Lehrer Show Congress Responds to Trump's Foreign Aggression & ICE Shooting
Jan 8, 2026
Burgess Everett, congressional bureau chief for Semafor, dives deep into Capitol Hill's reactions to Trump's controversial foreign moves. He breaks down the graphic ICE shooting in Minnesota, discussing its implications for law enforcement and public sentiment. Everett also examines the polarized responses from Congress on immigration and Venezuela, highlighting the complexities of proposed policies. Moreover, he explores the quirky idea of purchasing Greenland, including the legal hurdles and strategic interests involved. A must-listen for anyone intrigued by politics!
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Graphic Video Splits Political Reaction
- Video of the ICE agent shooting in Minnesota shows the woman driving away and the agent shooting as she leaves, creating visible disagreement over intent.
- Burgess Everett notes the footage will be dissected frame-by-frame and has already split reactions sharply along party lines.
Limited Congressional Leverage Over ICE
- Democrats frame the shooting as potential murder and demand accountability while many Republicans emphasize compliance with federal agents.
- Everett says Democrats' leverage is limited in the current Congress and electoral change is the primary long-term tool.
Force Votes To Reveal Positions
- Use privileged or war powers resolutions to force roll-call votes and expose members' positions.
- Burgess Everett highlights Senator Tim Kaine's tactic of pushing votes to create public records and pressure.